Collins was one of six draft eligible Tigers who said no to the NFL and LSU didn't miss the chance to counter balance the six that left with a little bit of good news. Several LSU coaches and players attended the press conference, including running back Kenny Hilliard, defensive ends Jermauria Rasco and Jordan Allen, and center Elliot Porter, each of whom had decisions to make. Running back Terrence Magee, who also was eligible, did not attend.

But Collins was the guy that had Tiger nation worried, especially after his high school teammate and LSU leading rusher Jeremy Hill, changed his mind and opted for the NFL on Monday. Collins was thought to be leaning toward staying, but Hill's move increased the panic factor. On top of that, right guard Trai Turner also decided it was time to go, joining wide receivers Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry, and defensive tackles Anthony Johnson and Ego Ferguson.

"It was going back and forth but I made that final decision yesterday," said Collins, the 6-feet-5, 315-pound left tackle and two-year starter.

"It definitely didn't come easy. When you are a young guy thinking about making your dream become reality, it's a tough decision, a tough process. At the end of the day I felt coming back I had more to benefit me than to leave. I feel like I made the best decision."

LSU coach Les Miles took the opportunity to laud Collins and others who stayed put, while reminding that the school still supported those that made a different decision. LSU lost 10 underclassmen off last year's team not counting Tyrann Mathieu, who had been dismissed before the season started.

"These guys have exhibited quality decision-making and the future path for young men in this program," Miles said. "The decision gives them a long term view of who they are. They are in a position promoting education and a want to enter the NFL at the highest possible position.

"This does not undermine or diminish decisions by other guys to leave. We should include (underclassmen) that went through the same process and made different decisions. But in fact we support them, enjoy them, wish the best for them. They are certainly teammates and we'll follow them fully."

Miles said he and members of the coaching staff consult with the players and encourage them "not to give the NFL a deal," that is, jumping to the NFL with anything less than a first round draft grade. He said he feels Collins is a prime example and will enhance his draft status by staying.

"Guys that come back are saying I can legitimately improve my stock," he said. "That self-perception will allow him to work and improve. I don't think there's any question he has the potential to be a very early draft pick at left tackle (next year)."

Yet, Collins said despite having a strong season in his first as the starter at left tackle (he started 2012 at left guard) he has plenty of room for improvement. He will be one of four returning starters on that unit.

"There are countless things I can improve on," he said. "I've got so much more potential and room to grow. That's why making this decision wasn't really that hard. I wasn't able to max out my potential here. Being able to come back and work on those things is going to be a big deal for me."

Most draft experts had Collins as a second day pick, meaning the second or third round. Collins said he got mixed signals as to whether he would play guard or tackle at the next level, but that it was a moot point because "I'm going to play tackle here.

"It's always been a dream to play in the NFL," he said. "I feel like I'm prepared to play in the NFL. I also know in my heart that my time at LSU is incomplete. I came here to compete, build great relationships with guys I call my teammates and my brothers. Also, to earn a degree."